The answer is: YES! There's a Monday Night Football preseason matchup on Monday, August 18, 2025. And we've got all the information you need to know as you get ready to watch a primetime NFL game, even if it's a tune-up for the regular season.

ESPN's Laura Rutledge and the "Monday Night Football" crew were in the nation's capital this evening to cover a preseason showdown between the Cincinnati Bengals and Washington Commanders. It didn't take long for fans to compliment her performance and appearance.

The first (and only) MNF preseason game takes place on Monday, August 18 when the Washington Commanders host the Cincinnati Bengals at 8:00 p.m. ET on ESPN. The first game of the regular season takes place Thursday, September 4 when the Eagles host the Cowboys at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock.

One player who has benefited from the development has been former Illinois running back Chase Brown. After taking over as Cincinnati's starter in Week 6 last season, Brown has sprinted forward without looking back. He got five carries on Monday and rushed for 22 yards – and even scored the first touchdown of the game.

One of ESPN's unpopular "Monday Night Football" telecasts is coming to an end in 2025. ESPN will no longer broadcast one of its Monday night games

Joe Burrow and Jayden Daniels, Heisman Trophy-winning quarterbacks from LSU, headlined the “Monday Night Football” matchup in the second preseason game for each team.

The Commanders are holding Brian Robinson out of their preseason Week 2 game against the Bengals as they explore trading him.

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